Message-Id: <20030914183650.RFSN13779.imf18aec.mail.bellsouth.net@[68.212.107.67]>

Pat wrote:
   >The yaesu software is very easy to use but if you have to program a
   >rig out in the field where you're away froma computer, it's not as
   >easy.

That's one reason I hate to rely on anything that has to be computer
programmed.  I  was seriously considering going with MOtorolla
commercial gear due to the ruggedness but that was what kept me away
from going that route.

Another person mentioned the Kenwood thg-71a as an alternative which I
believe is still in production.  I own one and it's fairly easy to
program.  Frequency entry is via keypad if desired.  Pl tones aren't,
but I've got a workaround for that.  I just dump memory contents to
vfo with the offset I want and a known ctcss tone and go from there
counting clicks until I've the one I want.

Btw I believe Keith's I can work this thing web site also has an ascii
manual of the 71a.  IT doesn't do dc to daylight receive like the 6a
but if you're looking for 2m and 70cm aaccessible radio it's an option
for you.

73 de nf5b




Richard Webb

Electric Spider Productions
"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety."

--- Benjamin Franklin, NOvember 1755 from the
Historical review of Pennsylvania